How Leaders Can Navigate a World in Grievance

Earlier this week, I attended an event that really impacted me!

The event was hosted by Edelman, a global PR and Communications firm, where they presented their 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer.

As an optimistic person, I have to be honest with you, I left the event feeling really sad and deflated. The findings in Edelman’s’ report were really sobering on many fronts, which I will share with you today.

But don’t worry, I promise to wrap up with some optimism and actionable ways that you, as a leader, can bring some light and hope to your team and organization.

Let’s start with the data.

Edelman’s data reveals a troubling trend.

This slide from the report indicates that people are not feeling optimistic about the future.

Over the years, people have shifted from fear to polarization to grievance. It’s a progression that signals growing disillusionment and deepening divides in society.

But why are people in a state of grievance?

The Roots of Grievance According to Edelman’s Data

Several factors contribute to this collective sense of frustration:

Mass Class Divide

Economic inequality continues to widen, leaving many feeling left behind. Young people can’t afford homes, groceries are so expensive and the disparity between CEO compensation and regular incomes continues to be troublesome.

Lack of Quality Information

The rise of misinformation and the erosion of reliable news sources make it difficult to discern truth from falsehood. People no longer trust the media and find their perspective to be biased. Many young people get their information only from TikTok. It’s hard to know what’s true these days.

A Broken Political System

Many feel disillusioned with political institutions and political leaders that seem incapable of addressing real issues. The Trump effect continues to create polarization and uncertainty for the future.

Declining Optimism for the Future

A growing number of people believe their children will not be better off than they were. The result? It’s harder to navigate a world of misinformation, harder to pay bills and harder to find hope for the future. I’ve even spoken to young people who are unsure about having children because they worry about raising them in such an unpredictable and chaotic world.

What Can Leaders Do?

As trust erodes on the global stage, you have a critical role to play in rebuilding confidence and stability within your team and organization.

This slide from the Edelman report indicates that businesses and leaders need to take more action to address mainstream dissatisfaction:

You must take action.

Gandhi says, “Be the change you want to see in the world.”

I say, “Be the light you want to see in the world.”

How can you do that?

Here are five key action steps that you can take to be a positive force at work:

Focus on Your Sphere of Influence

Instead of feeling overwhelmed by the broader global landscape, concentrate on what you can control. Your team, your organization and your immediate community are all places where you can make a tangible, positive impact.

Build a High-Trust Culture

Trust is the foundation of strong teams. It is critical that you create an environment where people feel heard, valued, and respected. Be transparent. Be loyal. Listen more. These actions will go a long way in fostering trust.

Provide Psychological Safety

People need to feel safe to voice their opinions, ask questions and make mistakes without fear of retribution. Build a culture of psychological safety that encourages innovation, collaboration and resilience.

Focus on Organizational Culture

A positive culture doesn’t happen by accident. Be intentional about shaping a workplace that supports inclusivity, adaptability and a shared purpose. When employees feel connected to a meaningful mission, engagement and morale in your organization will improve.

Train Your Leaders

Equip your team, especially those in leadership positions, with the skills to navigate today’s challenges. Leadership development programs, effective communication training and tools for managing change and uncertainty are essential in this environment.

Moving Forward

The Edelman Trust Barometer’s findings serve as a wake-up call.

While the global landscape may seem daunting, you have the power to create a team and business that is stable, optimistic and high-trust.

My advice is for you to focus on what you can control.

Please invest in your leaders. Give them the tools and skills to navigate our ever-shifting world.

Please use every day as an opportunity to bring some light and optimism to the workforce.

That is definitely within your sphere of influence.